What is the difference between the RC300 and the RC350?
In brief, the RC350 is the higher-performance variant with a larger V6 and more horsepower, while the RC300 uses a smaller turbocharged four-cylinder for better efficiency and a lower starting price. Both share the same sleek two-door Lexus coupe styling, but they diverge in power, acceleration, and cost.
These two models sit at the core of Lexus’s RC lineup, offering similar styling and most interior features, yet differ in under-the-hood character and daily driving feel. The following overview highlights the key distinctions in powertrains, performance, efficiency, pricing, and how each option suits different buyers.
Powertrain and performance
The differences start with what powers each car and how that translates to speed and feel on the road.
- Engine: RC300 uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 delivering about 241 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque; RC350 uses a 3.5-liter V6 producing about 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque.
- Transmission: Both models pair to an 8-speed automatic transmission for smooth shifts and responsive cruising.
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive is standard on both, with all-wheel drive available as an option on either model, depending on year and trim.
- Performance: The RC350’s larger V6 typically delivers quicker acceleration and stronger midrange pull; the RC300’s turbocharged four is brisk and more efficient, with a lighter overall feel that some drivers prefer in city driving.
- Handling and character: The RC350 tends to feel more purpose-built for spirited driving thanks to its horsepower and braking capacity, while the RC300 emphasizes a balanced, efficient daily driver with ample propulsion.
Conclusion: Power, response, and acceleration favor the RC350, while the RC300 emphasizes efficiency and a lower entry price without sacrificing the distinctive Lexus coupe experience.
Efficiency and fuel economy
Fuel economy varies by drivetrain and model year, but the turbo-four RC300 generally achieves better efficiency than the V6 RC350.
- RC300 (RWD, 2.0L turbo): approximately 23 mpg city / 30 mpg highway / 26 mpg combined (EPA estimates vary by year).
- RC300 (AWD, 2.0L turbo): roughly 22 mpg city / 29 mpg highway / 25 mpg combined.
- RC350 (RWD, 3.5L V6): around 20 mpg city / 28 mpg highway / 23 mpg combined.
- RC350 (AWD, 3.5L V6): about 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway / 21–22 mpg combined.
Conclusion: The RC300’s turbocharged four typically yields higher fuel economy, especially in the RWD configuration, while the RC350’s V6 trades some efficiency for stronger performance. Real-world numbers depend on year, drivetrain, and driving style.
Pricing, trims and value
Across model years, the RC350 usually commands a premium over the RC300 due to its larger engine and higher performance potential, plus trim-level differences.
- RC300 (RWD): starting prices commonly in the upper $30,000s to around $40,000, depending on year and trim.
- RC300 (AWD): typically a few thousand dollars more than the RWD version.
- RC350 (RWD): starting prices generally in the low to mid $40,000s, rising with trims and options.
- RC350 (AWD): often $2,000–$5,000 above the corresponding RWD price, depending on features.
Conclusion: Expect a premium of roughly $3,000–$6,000 for the RC350 over the RC300, driven by the V6’s performance edge and available luxury features on higher trims.
Design, features and driving feel
Inside and out, the two models look largely the same, but there are differences buyers notice in equipment and ride quality.
- Interior and tech: Both share Lexus’s upscale cabin, with high-quality materials and available tech like Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, though newer or higher trims on the RC350 may include more standard features (e.g., upgraded sound systems or upgraded materials).
- Exterior cues: The exterior styling is largely identical across the lineup, with sportier appearances available on F Sport variants, which can be applied to both RC300 and RC350 through trim and options.
- Ride and brakes: The RC350 often benefits from stronger brakes and, depending on the trim, sport-tuned suspension, contributing to more confident high-speed handling compared with the RC300.
Conclusion: If you value a sportier ride and more premium-standard equipment, the RC350 is typically the better fit. If you want a stylish Lexus coupe with solid performance and better efficiency at a lower price, the RC300 remains a compelling choice.
Which should you choose?
Consider your priorities: daily usability, budget, and how important acceleration and engine sound are to you. A test drive of both configurations is essential to feel the difference in weight, power delivery, and comfort.
- Choose the RC350 if you crave stronger acceleration, a deeper engine note, and more high-speed confidence, and you’re willing to pay more upfront and potentially higher running costs.
- Choose the RC300 if you prefer lower purchase price, improved city fuel economy, and a brisk-but-efficient driving experience with a turbo-four that still feels lively.
Conclusion: Your decision should balance performance preference, daily practicality, and total ownership cost. Both models deliver Lexus quality and a distinctive two-door experience.
Summary
The RC350 is the more powerful option with a 3.5-liter V6, delivering stronger acceleration, a deeper engine note, and typically higher pricing. The RC300 uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter four for sharper efficiency and a lower starting price, while still offering strong performance. Both share the same chassis and interior comfort, with differences mainly in powertrain, performance, and value. Your choice comes down to whether you want performance and presence (RC350) or efficiency and affordability (RC300), ideally confirmed by a side-by-side test drive.
